Heavyweight boxing star Tyson Fury appears poised to step back into the ring yet again, marking a remarkable fifth reversal of his decision to retire from the sport. The self-styled 'Gypsy King' had initially hung up his gloves in January 2025 following consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk, but signs now strongly point to another major comeback in 2026.
Training in Thailand and a Three-Man Hit List
Rather than ushering in the new year with celebrations, the 37-year-old former two-time world champion was spotted honing his skills at a training camp in Thailand. He has been working alongside South African professional boxer Kevin Lerena, signalling serious intent for a return to competitive action.
Fury has not been shy about his ambitions, publicly naming a trio of potential opponents for his proposed comeback. His hit list includes a long-awaited, blockbuster domestic clash with Anthony Joshua, a fight with British champion Fabio Wardley, and a trilogy bout to settle the score with unified champion Oleksandr Usyk. While no official date or opponent has been confirmed, the fighter's actions and words have made his direction clear.
A History of Walking Away and Coming Back
This latest episode continues a well-established pattern for the Morecambe fighter, whose relationship with retirement has been notoriously on-again, off-again.
The First Retirement (November 2013)
Fury first announced his retirement in 2013, citing frustration after his scheduled fight with David Haye was cancelled twice due to Haye's injuries. In a social media post, he declared he was "officially retired" and criticised the sport. The retirement was short-lived, lasting only a few weeks. By February 2014, he was back, stopping Joey Abell in the fourth round in London.
The Second & Third Retirements (2016-2017)
After his stunning victory over Wladimir Klitschko in 2015 to claim the unified heavyweight titles, Fury's life outside the ring unravelled. He battled depression, weight gain, and doping allegations. He vacated his titles and had his boxing licence suspended. In October 2016, he announced another retirement, which he later called a prank. A more definitive post came in August 2017, stating "THE END."
However, after resolving his issues with UK Anti-Doping and the British Boxing Board of Control, his licence was reinstated in early 2018. He returned to the ring that May, beginning a journey that led to his epic draw with Deontay Wilder in Los Angeles later that year.
The Fourth Retirement (April 2022)
Following two spectacular knockout wins over Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC crown and a dominant victory over Dillian Whyte at Wembley Stadium, Fury seemed certain he was done. "I have fulfilled everything I've ever wanted to fulfil," he stated after beating Whyte. He relinquished his Ring magazine title and reiterated his retirement on his 34th birthday. Yet, by the end of 2022, he was back, defeating Derek Chisora in a trilogy fight.
What Happens Next for Fury?
Since his last official fight, Fury has kept busy, expanding his property portfolio and filming the second series of his Netflix reality show, 'At Home With The Furys.' However, the lure of the ring and the prospect of historic fights have proven irresistible once more. With a clear list of targets and active preparation underway, the boxing world is now waiting for the official announcement that will confirm the end of retirement number five and the beginning of the next chapter for Tyson Fury.
